Well, it’s opening day for MLB, so that means division title predictions.
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AL East Prediction: Baltimore Orioles
Underrated at the mound, the Orioles stand out this season as a team that could win the division. If they do, it will be the first back-to-back division championships since the 1973-1974 season.
Although the Orioles lost three strong players, most of the pitching staff will be returning and they will be getting impact players back that they did not have this past season due to various reasons, for example, third baseman Manny Machado is back from knee surgery.
AL Central Prediction: Cleveland Indians
The Indians have not won a division title since 2007 and this season will prove to be just as challenging as the past ones. But, the Indians have a strong roster coming into 2015.
While losing no one crucial to the team, they added outfielder Brandon Moss and starting pitcher Gavin Floyd. While pitching keeps getting stronger, the Indians will be looking to Moss in the middle of the lineup to help with consistency on the offensive side of the game.
AL West Prediction: Seattle Mariners
The Mariners have yet to make it to the World Series for the entire duration of their 38-year existence. But, this year could be the year.
Pitching for the Mariners was a success last season, and this season, they finally have the offense to match the talent on the mound. The Angels will be Seattle’s biggest challenge in the division coming off of a 98-win season.
NL East Prediction: Washington Nationals
After winning the division last season by 17 games, the Nationals are basically everyone’s favorite to win. Not only did they keep the majority of their roster, but also they added Max Scherzer, which only adds to the threat of their pitching lineup.
The Nationals offensive performance is looking strong going into 2015 with four players in the double-digits for steals and only two players last season who posted a below average OPS.
NL Central Prediction: St. Louis Cardinals
The Cardinals were a playoff team last season, and are looking good for this season as well with almost the same returning roster. But, during the offseason, the Cardinals added Jason Heyward, taking care of a big weak point in the outfield.
While other teams in the division are looking strong as well, the Cardinals have the depth in the roster that most other teams do not have. Heyward is a newcomer that everyone is excited to see in action for the Cardinals.
NL West Prediction: Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers have won the division title for the past two seasons and are looking to again this season with the help of their large payroll.
A roster that provides everything from veterans to homegrown stars is bound to give off a season to impress all. During the offseason, they adjusted their roster to really focus on preventing runs.
